Magic's Franz Wagner: 'Future All-Star?'

Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner could be poised for another big jump in his third year.

ORLANDO - For as much attention former No. 1 pick and 2023 Rookie of the Year Paolo Banchero rightfully gets, he isn't the only bright spot on the Orlando Magic. 

Bleacher Report broke down the top three building blocks for each NBA team. Banchero led the way for Orlando, and right behind him was third-year forward Franz Wagner. 

"Wagner looks incredibly comfortable (and more than capable) as second-in-command of this young Orlando squad," Bleacher Report writes. "While most pre-draft projections pegged him as a glue guy in 2022, he has already cleared that bar and then some. A smattering of All-Star selections could absolutely be a part of his future."

Wagner was the No. 8 overall pick by Orlando in the 2021 NBA Draft. While he was the second pick for Orlando after the team took Jalen Suggs with the No. 5 pick, Wagner has proven to be the better player so far.

Wagner increased his offensive production from his rookie year, improving from 15.2 points per game in 2022 to 18.6 points per game in 2023. He has also stayed on the court, playing in 159 of 162 games in his two-year career. 

The Magic made strides toward the end of the year before being eliminated from playoff contention. If Orlando is going to go from a young ascending team to one that's competing for a playoff spot, Wagner making another jump in his third year and becoming an All-Star may be what puts them over the top. 

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